UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
The United Arab Emirates, or the UAE, is situated in the Middle East on the Arabian Peninsula. The country comprises of seven emirates with each having distinct customs and traditions.
Culture of the UAE: The UAE has a rich heritage that stems from its geographical location and historical events. Its culture is a mixture of Arab, Islam and other influences. Arabic is the most used language in The UAE but English is popular in cities. The major religion is Islam, which also is a main contributor to the cultural and everyday life of the people in the UAE. The Emirates particularly stand out for their generous and warm treatment of guests.
Currency of the UAE: The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the Emirati dirham with the international currency code AED which is subdivided into 100 fils. The Dirham has been pegged to the US$ for years now and the exchange rate has been stable for that time. The currency is accepted all over the nation and there are also ATMs in cities.
The Seven Emirates of the
UAE
- Abu Dhabi: Located on the United Arab Emirates western side of the coastline, it is not a surprise that Abu Dhabi is the largest and wealthiest emirate. Famed for its lavish beach resorts and complexes, it also plays home to an outstanding array of cultural sites which include the Abu Dhabi Louvre, Qasr Al Hosn and the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
- Dubai: Dubbed the‘widow’s’ city due to its stunning skyline, luxury malls and extravagant lifestyle, Dubai is unquestionably a city bursting with life. Earning its fame as being the 2nd richest emirate, it is where cultures and traditions blend beautifully including places such as the Burj Al Arab.
- Sharjah: Known as the ‘cultural heart’ of the UAE, Sharjah is readily known for its art and architectural heritage resources. The Artisan District, Sharjah Art Foundation and Sharjah Cultural and Scientific Association are just a few out of the many attractions located in Sharjah and more importantly it is also home to some of the oldest structures in the emirate.
- Ajman: Serving as the fastest growing and smallest economy in the Middle East, Ajman provides a relaxed and tranquil living environment along the gulf coast. Ajman’s relaxed atmosphere fosters a rich historical background leaving both the Ajman Museum and the Al Murabba Watchtower as fascinating sites to visit.
- Umm Al Quwain: Umm Al Quwain is one of the smallest emirates in UAE, it’s also one of the quietest and most blessed with nature. The wetland reserve as well as Dreamland Aqua Park can be found in this emirate.
- Ras Al Khaimah: Also the furthest north, Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. Ras Al Khaimah has mountains in the north and beaches to the south Its historical places include some of the oldest tombs in the U.A.E, Ras al-Khaimah National Museum, and Dhayah Fort.
- Fujairah: Fujairah I would say is the only eastern emirate which makes up the nine emirates of the United Arab Emirates. This area is famous for mountains as well as beaches. This is the home to Fujairah Fort as well as Al Badiyah Mosque and many other important places.
Rich in culture and diverse, United Arab Emirates comprises of seven emirates, each contributing its rich culture to the country which makes it worth touring. UAE uses Emarati Dirham as its currency and is widely accepted in the country.